The Late, Great Sheldon Brown

I just learned that the world's most beloved cycling guru, Newton Mass's own Sheldon Brown, has passed away. He was the webmaster for Newton's Harris Cyclery, which was by far the best cycling-related website in the history of the universe. In that capacity, he used intelligence, humor, and an unbridled passion for cycling to touch the lives of countless aspiring cyclists and bicycle mechanics. He will be missed.

I am sort of shocked at my own reaction. Although I never met him face-to-face, I am deeply, deeply saddened by this news. His page on fixed gear conversions was invaluable when I was working on my own fixed-gear project. I purchased several parts from Harris's online store, and emailed Mr. Brown for advice--receiving an almost instantaneous reply in the middle of the night. I literally couldn't have done it without him. And that bike has given me countless hours of enjoyment, made me much healthier, and a much stronger cyclist than I would otherwise be. Anytime I ever want to know anything about cycling, which is several times a week, the first thing I would do is check his website. In almost every case, the answer is right there.

He had been battling multiple sclerosis for several years, and maintained a blog chronicling his struggles, with characteristic good humor. Not wanting to seem like a sourpuss, he once wrote,

I really don't mean to be gloomy.

In most ways my life is a dream: after 27 years of marriage, my wife and I are still very much in love.

We've got two great kids, both of whom are doing well in graduate school and appear to be on track toward happy, productive, independent lives.

We live in a comfortable house in a safe neighborhood. I have work that I love and a kind, understanding boss who values my contribution, even though it mostly comes over the computer keyboard these days, sometimes at the shop, more often from my home.

My condition is a major inconvenience, but doesn't appear to be life-threatening, and there is no pain involved, so I really consider myself a very fortunate person in general.